Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186): Australian Permanent Residency
Visa Class
186
Length of Stay
Permanent
Cost
From AUD 4900
Employer Nomination Scheme - Subclass 186
The Employer Nomination Scheme Subclass 186 Visa allows skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian employer to live and work in Australia permanently.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Subclass 186 visa, you must:
Be nominated by an approved Australian employer.
Be under 45 years of age (with some exemptions).
Have the required skills and qualifications for the nominated occupation.
Hold a positive skills assessment (if required).
Meet the English language requirements (usually at least IELTS 6 or equivalent).
Satisfy standard health and character criteria.
There are three main streams under the ENS visa:
Direct Entry Stream – for workers who have never, or only briefly, worked in Australia.
Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream – for 457, 482, or 494 visa holders who have worked with their employer for at least 3 years.
Labour Agreement Stream – for applicants sponsored through a labour agreement.
Application Process
Secure a nomination from an eligible Australian employer.
Gather documents including skills assessment, qualifications, and English test results.
Lodge a visa application online via ImmiAccount.
Pay the visa application fee.
Undergo health and character checks.
Await decision and receive permanent residency if approved.
Understanding the Points Test
The Subclass 186 visa is not points-tested. Approval is based on your employer’s nomination and your eligibility criteria, making it an attractive option for skilled workers with secure job offers.
Common Issues Applicants Face
Employer not meeting sponsorship requirements (must be an approved sponsor).
Skills assessment not matching occupation.
Incorrect stream selection (Direct Entry vs TRT).
English or age exemptions misunderstood.
Incomplete nomination documents causing delays or refusals.
The Subclass 186 visa is one of the most reliable pathways to permanent residency in Australia if you already have an employer who values your skills. With our expert guidance, we ensure your application is accurate, compliant, and maximises your chances of success.
Check Eligibility
FAQs
Can I change employers after receiving the Subclass 186 visa?
Yes, but you are expected to work with your nominating employer for a reasonable period, usually two years. Changing employers too soon may raise concerns with the Department of Home Affairs.
Do I need to live in a specific location in Australia on a 186 visa?
No, the Subclass 186 visa grants permanent residency, so you can live and work anywhere in Australia once granted
What happens if my employer withdraws the nomination before my 186 visa is granted?
If your sponsoring employer withdraws their nomination, your visa application will usually be refused unless another employer nominates you.
Is the Employer Nomination Scheme 186 visa a permanent visa?
Yes, the Subclass 186 is a permanent residency visa, giving you full work rights, access to Medicare, and a pathway to citizenship
Can I include family members in my Subclass 186 visa application?
Yes, you can include your spouse/partner and dependent children in your application. If granted, they will also receive permanent residency.
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